Welcome to another blog post off my carer and mental health website.
Caring for a loved one is a profoundly rewarding experience, but it can also be an incredibly challenging journey. The role often comes with feelings of isolation and overwhelming responsibility.
Fortunately, networking with fellow caregivers can make a significant difference in the lives of unpaid carers. Connectivity fosters emotional support, practical advice, resource sharing, community building, resilience, and even advocacy. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of networking for unpaid carers and how it can enrich their caregiving journey.
Video Version
To watch a brief video of the blog please view the video below
Emotional Support: You Are Not Alone
One of the most significant benefits of networking is emotional support. Caring for a loved one can often feel isolating, and the weight of responsibilities can be heavy. Connecting with other caregivers who truly understand your experiences can lighten this emotional load. Sharing your stories, challenges, and triumphs with those who “get it” provides comfort and a sense of belonging. Knowing you are not alone in this journey can significantly improve mental health and resilience.
Access to Practical Advice
Networking allows carers to exchange invaluable tips and strategies. Each caregiving situation is unique, but many challenges are universal. Experienced carers can offer practical advice on managing specific conditions, navigating healthcare systems, or handling day-to-day tasks. This shared knowledge acts as a collective wisdom pool, making the caregiving process more manageable for everyone involved.
Resource Sharing
In addition to practical advice, networking facilitates the sharing of resources. Information about local services, support groups, and community resources can be invaluable. Imagine having a treasure map that leads you to various forms of support tailored for carers—this is what resource sharing can achieve. These exchanges can lead to discovering programs, grants, respite care options, and other services that ease the caregiving burden.
Community Building
Establishing connections with other caregivers fosters a sense of community and belonging. In many ways, caregiving can be a lonely journey, but community building changes this narrative. Community groups provide a space where carers can interact and engage in meaningful conversations. For example, caregiver groups run locally can offer a support system where members can share experiences, support each other, and even socialize. Such communities act as pillars of strength for carers, reinforcing that they are part of a larger, caring network.
Enhancing Resilience Through Shared Strategies
Resilience is a necessary trait for carers. The demands of caregiving require constant adaptation and emotional strength. By networking, carers can learn effective coping strategies from one another. These shared strategies can empower carers, building their resilience and enhancing their ability to provide care. Learning from others’ experiences offers new insights and techniques, reinforcing the carer’s own skills and capacities.
Boosting Advocacy and Awareness
When caregivers come together, their collective voice becomes stronger. Networking can boost advocacy and awareness of the issues that matter most to carers. Advocacy can lead to policy changes, more resources, and greater recognition of the challenges faced by carers. Whether it’s campaigning for more support services or raising awareness about the realities of caregiving, a united front can make a substantial impact.
Amplifying Voices
Together, caregivers can amplify their voices to influence change. Advocacy efforts become more effective when carers unite. These collective efforts can bring about policy changes, increased funding for caregiving resources, and greater public awareness of the importance of supporting unpaid carers. By networking and working together, carers can drive systemic changes that benefit the entire caregiving community.
Tips for Building a Caregiving Network
Join or Form Caregiver Support Groups
Consider joining or forming caregiver support groups in your local community or online. These groups create a space for regular interactions, exchanges of advice, and mutual support. You might want to check out the carer forums I run off my website.
Attend Workshops and Conferences
Workshops, seminars, and conferences are excellent opportunities to meet other carers and professionals in the field. These events often provide both educational content and networking opportunities.
Utilize Social Media
Social media platforms can also serve as networking tools. Joining caregiver groups on platforms like Facebook or participating in Twitter chats can connect you with a broad community of caregivers worldwide.
Engage with Local Nonprofits and Organizations
Local nonprofits and organizations often have resources and networks specifically designed for carers. Engage with these entities to tap into their resources and support networks.
Leverage Online Forums
Online forums and communities, such as Reddit or specialized caregiving forums, allow for the exchange of advice, experiences, and support. These platforms can be especially beneficial for those who may not have access to local groups. I even utilise Whatsapp to provide a network for carers to connect.
Reach Out to Healthcare Providers
Healthcare providers often have connections to support groups and resources for carers. Don’t hesitate to ask your loved one’s doctor or nurse for referrals to local or online caregiver networks.
Create Personal Connection Lists
Keep a list of contacts that you can reach out to for different types of support. This can include other carers, healthcare professionals, and service providers. A well-maintained list can be a quick reference for resources and advice when needed.
Conclusion
Networking for unpaid carers is more than just a beneficial activity—it’s a necessary lifeline. Emotional support, practical advice, resource sharing, community building, resilience, and advocacy are some of the many advantages that come from connecting with fellow carers. By fostering these connections, carers can significantly enrich their caregiving experience and improve their well-being and the quality of care they provide. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out, connect, and together, we can create a supportive and empowered caregiving community. Take care!
Welcome to another blog post from carer activist Matthew McKenzie for World Mental Health Day 2024.
Raising Awareness for Mental Health: The Significance of World Mental Health Day 2024
On October 10th, the world comes together to observe World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness around mental health issues and mobilizing efforts in support of mental well-being. Established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day serves as a crucial reminder for governments, organizations, professionals, and individuals to advocate for mental health awareness and promote positive mental health practices.
The Importance of Raising Awareness
World Mental Health Day shines a global spotlight on mental health issues, encouraging open and honest conversations about mental health. Breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness is a key aspect of this day. When mental health is discussed openly, it becomes easier for people to seek help and support. This not only includes individuals struggling with mental health conditions themselves but also those who care for someone facing these challenges.
Advocacy for Mental Health Care
A fundamental focus of World Mental Health Day 2024 is advocacy for mental health care. This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” highlights the importance of access to quality mental health care for everyone, regardless of their location or financial situation. Ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to get the help they need, even in the workplace, is a critical message being communicated globally.
Educational Initiatives
Education plays a massive role in World Mental Health Day. Many organizations use this opportunity to host events, discussions, and seminars aimed at educating the public about mental health issues, their symptoms, available treatments, and the importance of having a solid support network. Knowledge truly is power, and understanding mental health can significantly improve how we support ourselves and others in our communities.
The 2024 Theme: Mental Health at Work
The theme for World Mental Health Day 2024, “Mental Health at Work,” emphasizes the need for safe and healthy working environments that protect our mental health. This powerful message reinforces the notion that mental health care should be available to everyone and that no one should face barriers to access due to stigma, geography, or financial constraints.
Key Messages to Take Away
From World Mental Health Day 2024, there are several essential messages we should embrace:
Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Openly discussing mental health can reduce stigma.
Seeking help for mental health concerns is okay.
Mental health services should be accessible to everyone, including services at the workplace.
Community and Organizational Activities
Around the world, communities and organizations celebrate this day in various ways. Hosting events, running campaigns, and participating in activities such as mindfulness workshops, mental health seminars, and workplace initiatives aimed at supporting mental wellness are some approaches taken to mark the occasion. These activities not only raise awareness but also foster a supportive community environment.
Moving Forward: Making a Positive Change
World Mental Health Day 2024 is not just a day on the calendar but an opportunity to create lasting positive changes. By continuing the conversation about mental health, advocating for accessible mental health care, educating ourselves and others, and supporting workplace mental health initiatives, we can help ensure that mental health matters.
In conclusion, as we observe World Mental Health Day, let us commit to making mental health a priority in our lives and communities. By doing so, we honor the fundamental principles of this day and contribute to a world where mental health is recognized, understood, and supported.
Thank you for reading. Remember to take care of yourselves and each other. To watch the video version see the video below.
Welcome to another blog post on carer / caregiver awareness from carer activist Matthew McKenzie. To see the video of this blog post, watch below.
Recognizing the Need for Help as a Caregiver: 10 Signs to Watch Out For
Caring for a loved one is often a rewarding experience filled with deep connection and personal satisfaction. However, it can also become overwhelming, exhausting, and challenging. Acknowledging that you need help is a crucial step in providing the best care for both your loved one and yourself. Here, we’ll explore 10 important signs that indicate it may be time to ask for help in your caregiving role.
Feeling Overwhelmed with Your Caring Role
Caregiving involves juggling numerous responsibilities, which can lead to constant stress and anxiety. If you often feel like you’re unable to cope, it’s a clear indication that you need support. Feeling overwhelmed is not a sign of weakness; it’s a human response to a heavy load. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to ask for help and share the burden.
Physical Exhaustion
The physical demands of caregiving can be immense. Lifting, moving, and assisting your loved one can take a toll on your body. If you find yourself frequently fatigued, or if you experience chronic pain or other health issues, it’s important to seek help. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to caregiver burnout, which ultimately benefits no one.
Emotional Strain
Caregiving can also be emotionally taxing. Signs of depression, irritability, or frequent mood swings may indicate that you need emotional support. Friends, family, or professional counselors can provide the necessary outlet for your feelings and help you manage the emotional strain that comes with caregiving.
Changes in Your Loved One’s Needs
Your loved one’s condition may worsen over time, increasing their care needs. When this happens, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Professional help can be crucial during periods of significant change, ensuring your loved one receives the best care possible while you adapt to new demands.
Neglecting Personal Needs
It can be easy to lose sight of your own health, relationships, and hobbies when you’re focused on caregiving. However, neglecting your personal needs can lead to serious health and emotional issues. Seeking help can give you the space to take care of yourself, restoring balance and allowing you to be a stronger caregiver.
Isolation
Feeling lonely or disconnected is a common experience among caregivers. This isolation can exacerbate stress and make the caregiving role even more challenging. Reaching out for support, whether from family, friends, or caregiver support groups, can help you reconnect and remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.
Crisis Situations
In times of emergency or when faced with making tough decisions about your loved one’s care, seeking help is essential. Attempting to navigate these moments alone can be risky. Professional advice and support can provide the guidance you need to make the best possible decisions during a crisis.
Lack of Knowledge or Skills
Caregiving often involves tasks that require specific knowledge or skills, such as medical care or managing medications. If you encounter tasks you’re unsure how to handle, it’s crucial to seek guidance. Professional help can ensure that these tasks are performed correctly, safeguarding your loved one’s health.
Inability to Maintain Routine
Maintaining a consistent daily routine is vital for both you and your loved one. If you find that daily routines are regularly disrupted and you’re struggling to manage time, consider asking for assistance. A little help can go a long way in restoring structure and reducing stress.
Need for Respite
Everyone needs a break occasionally. If you feel the need to take time for self-care or to recharge, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether this comes from family, friends, or respite care services, taking the time to rest is essential for maintaining your well-being and being an effective caregiver.
Conclusion: Seeking Help is a Sign of Strength
Recognizing and acting on these signs doesn’t mean you’re failing as a caregiver; it means you’re taking necessary steps to ensure the best care for your loved one and yourself. Asking for help is an act of strength and responsibility. Take the initiative today to reach out and seek the support you need in your caregiving journey.
Welcome back to another blog post from carer activist Matthew McKenzie. Did you know it is ADHD Awareness Month?
To watch the video of the blog, please view below.
Understanding ADHD: An Overview
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of individuals worldwide, impacting not only those diagnosed but their families, friends, and caregivers. ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, which can significantly impair daily functioning in various spheres of life, including school, work, and relationships. Every October, ADHD Awareness Month is observed to shed light on this condition, promote understanding, and advocate for better support systems. The theme for 2024 is “Awareness is Key,” emphasizing the importance of knowledge in fostering support and empathy.
The Importance of Education
Empowering Through Understanding
One of the most crucial steps in supporting someone with ADHD is to educate yourself about the condition. Understanding ADHD, its symptoms, and its challenges can foster empathy, patience, and a supportive attitude. Knowledge truly is power. The more you know about ADHD, the better equipped you are to provide the necessary support. This includes learning about common behaviors, the impact of ADHD in daily life, and effective management strategies.
Promoting a Learning Culture
Families, schools, and workplaces should prioritize awareness and education about ADHD. Regular training sessions, workshops, and informational resources can significantly improve how people understand and interact with those affected by ADHD. When communities are informed, they can collectively create more supportive environments.
Creating Structure
The Power of Routines
Establishing routines and daily schedules offers predictability and stability for individuals with ADHD. Structure can provide a sense of security, helping to manage time more effectively and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Visual aids such as calendars, planners, or to-do lists can be extremely helpful in keeping track of tasks and responsibilities. These tools can serve as constant reminders and help individuals prioritize their actions.
Breaks Are Essential
Regular short breaks are crucial during tasks. These breaks allow individuals with ADHD to recharge and maintain their focus. It’s not about working less, but about finding a balance that promotes productivity and reduces fatigue. Identifying the optimal schedule for breaks can make a significant difference in performance and overall well-being.
Effective Communication
Concise and Specific Instructions
When giving instructions to someone with ADHD, it’s important to be concise and specific. Using clear and simple language, avoiding unnecessary details, and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make a huge difference. This approach ensures that instructions are understood and followed more easily, leading to better outcomes.
Minimizing Distractions
Creating a calm and focused environment is paramount. Reducing noise, limiting visual distractions, and providing a quiet space can significantly improve the ability of individuals with ADHD to concentrate. Environmental modifications might include soundproofing a room, using noise-canceling headphones, or setting up a dedicated workspace that is free from interruptions.
The Power of Personal Stories
Insights from Lived Experiences
Personal stories are incredibly powerful in understanding ADHD. Hearing from individuals with ADHD and their caregivers can provide valuable insights and foster empathy. These stories highlight the real-world challenges and successes of living with ADHD, offering practical advice and hope.
Case Studies
Sarah’s Story: Sarah struggled in school until she found a teacher who understood ADHD and adapted her teaching methods. This timely intervention made all the difference, helping Sarah excel academically and boosting her self-esteem.
Jake’s Journey: As a carer, Jake found solace in a local carer support group. Connecting with others who understood his challenges provided him with coping strategies and a sense of community. This network of support was instrumental in helping him manage his caregiving responsibilities.
Advocating for ADHD Awareness
Community Engagement
This ADHD Awareness Month, let’s commit to raising awareness and advocating for those with ADHD. Small actions, such as sharing information, participating in community events, and supporting advocacy groups, can lead to significant changes. Community engagement helps build a support system that is informed, compassionate, and proactive.
Educational Campaigns and Resources
Supporting ongoing educational campaigns and providing resources can help spread awareness and understanding. Schools, workplaces, and community centers can play a pivotal role by organizing seminars, distributing literature, and facilitating support groups.
Conclusion
ADHD Awareness Month serves as a crucial period for promoting understanding and support for individuals with ADHD. By educating ourselves, creating structured and supportive environments, and listening to personal stories, we can become better allies. Let’s take this opportunity to make a positive impact. Awareness indeed is key—it opens doors to empathy, effective support, and advocacy.
If you found this content helpful, consider sharing it to spread awareness further. By working together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by ADHD.
Welcome back to another blog post by unpaid carer Matthew Mckenzie. I am happy to have been able to write up some posts, despite being fairly busy. I want to put a thought in your head, I know in this society, we do not often have time to stop and reflect. Living in this fast paced life it is so important to stop and think ever now again.
The thought I want to put into your head is this. “Have you thought about where you live”? Is it in the city or suburbs? Maybe a village or town. Perhaps this is not even a deep thought when you step back and observe, but it does not end there. When you look around, what do you see? Are those around the area as busy as you are? Or perhaps do they seem to be more relaxed? Maybe they are letting the world go by.
Now think about your health and wellbeing, are you lucky to have good health? It is not as easy as everyone thinks, because we are so busy, it is hard to find the time to eat well, exercise or even get a good nights sleep. We all know what happens if we cannot look after our health and wellbeing, but if you are curious then I will explain later.
Hello again. I promised I would do a blog of timeline of Nursing in the UK. Well, its not really a timeline, but a video of some important events in regards to Nursing in the UK. Usually I do blog posts focusing on unpaid carers, but I felt it time to expand some blogs in which unpaid carers come into contact with.
I have been meaning to do this video blog for a while now, since carers have a lot to say about the field of nursing, probably due to the importance nurses have when the cared for ends up unwell. However even carers can become unwell and every one else. The great contribution nurses have given should be recognised and I am sure to do more blog posts to promote health and the NHS in future, although mainly from a carers perspective.
Welcome back to another health awareness video. I have been gone quite a long while, but that doesn’t mean I have not been very busy. I usually am involved with many carer forums and groups in and around south/south east London. I try to raise awareness of unpaid carers who look after someone suffering from mental illness.
To see the video version, please click below
However there comes a time when we need to look after ourselves, be it if we are caring for someone or trying to care for ourselves. This video looks into Self Care week, which runs from November 13th to November 19th. The theme is Embracing Self Care for Life. Self care is about keeping fit and healthy, understanding when you can look after yourself and also when to askfor advice from a GP.
If you are unwell or suffer from a long term condition then it is very important you find out as much as you can in order to support yourself. Self care need not be so difficult if you know what you are dealing with.
Across the UK many suffer needlessly when dealing with weight problems, lack of exercise and stopping smoking. Getting information or attending events can be useful in combating unhealthy lifestyles. If you are caring for someone, you can easily fall into the habit of not paying much attention to your own health needs. It is an easy mistake to make especially when you have little time for yourself.
From the self care forum website, there are tips and advice not only for yourself, but for GP surgeries and pharmacists up and down the UK. It is a massive drive to get the population healthier and combat damaging habits to our health.
It has been a while since my last blog post. Usually I review psychiatry or psychology lectures, but I thought to go back into writing more about carers. This time I think I shall blog about why people want to be there for others, especially those that are close to them.
The role of a carer unfortunately is not an easy task or one that people are often ready for. Who is to say when the next person is to be struck down by a physical or mental illness. If we are to begin that journey where we are to care for our loved one, there are many paths that we can go down and each path can make things easier or incredibly difficult in the long run.
Welcome to another one of my blog posts, on this particular post I want to talk about carers. Those who have regularly visited my blog might have some idea what a carer already is, but for those who are new to my blog may wonder “what actually is a carer?” What defines a carer and why do people, families and communities sometimes feel compelled to care?
What is a carer
Someone who looks after another persons needs
Lets say you have known someone most of your life or perhaps someone in your family who has fallen ill. That person tries to do their chores and live their life without much help or support, but after a while it will be noticed by most people that they are struggling.
This is when a person decides to take on some of the responsibilities of that person that has become ill, although the carer’s main focus is to provide help, some security and care for that person.
Not all carers are the same and some have demanding caring duties, while others care on and off for a short time, but no matter what the tasks, they are all carers.
They are mostly not professional carers
When I talk about carers, I am not talking carers who train up on a course and look for people to care for. I am talking about those who find out that care is directed at them due to a family member falling ill, or a neighbour or a friend in desperate caring need. I am talking about parents looking after their children who have sustained serious injuries, disabilities or impairment. I am talking about young carers who are not only trying to understand their place in the world, but also trying to understand why their parents are in need of assistance.
Its not that carers can’t walk away from the care they give, some carers have to make that decision on what they should sacrifice. Carers may have to give up work, education, time and commitments to provide care.
Carers are known as carers because they ARE standing by their loved one. If someone moves on they can still provide some care, but it might not be as demanding as those who are currently providing long term or full time care.
Carers have to juggle many things as if their own life is slightly put on hold while they seek to understand the illness that is affecting who they care for. This is more difficult if the illness happens to be a mental illness or perhaps a devastating physical problem.
Some carers might not have a clue on what they may face and will have to look for answers or support, but we ll get on to that later.
Types of carers
I am not going to make a long list, but I will want to try define at least some of the types of carers. There are always a long list of carers you can search for on the internet, but since all carers are not the same, it makes sense to point out different types of carers.
Carers for elderly
Here we have those who will end up looking after their parents, most do this because they are concerned or worried that their loved ones will end up in a home too far away from them. Quite a lot of older people prefer to stay at home for their own independence, while others fear abuse and neglect.
Some people may wish for their parents to move on, but carers may prefer old aged parents to stay at home. You can also have older aged carers who care for their partners who are ageing. Other older aged carers also may care even for younger people.
Below is a list of symptoms carers may have to care for when looking after older aged loved ones.
List of symptoms these types of carers provide care for
Heart conditions
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease
Depression
Incontinence
Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Diabetes
Breathing problems
Frequent falls, which can lead to fractures
Parkinson’s disease
Cancer
Carers for the disabled
These type of carers can be of any age, but this time care can be demanding depending on the disability the caree has, when I mean caree, I am talking about the person receiving the care.
Types of disabilities a carer will have to care for.
This is not a full list, but shows what carers may need to tackle in order to provide care. I have two brothers who have Autism and providing care and safety as well as treating them with dignity can be a juggling act, but be aware Autism is a range or spectrum of disabilities.
There are also different ranges of paralysis putting strain on carers wanting to care for those who lack the function to care for themselves.
Carers for mentally ill
Another type of carer who often can be hit pretty hard because they can lack the knowledge of how to deal with mental illness that has struck their loved one. How can you care for someone who may not wish to receive care and yet is recognised by the mental health system as user of the services. What happens if the caree does not wish to engage with services? Where does this leave the carer, what rights do they have?
Some disorders can vary in the type of care needed, while other disorders are devastating and require support not only for the patient or person with lived experience, but also for the carer who can at times be overwhelmed in providing care.
Youngs Carers
One of the most difficult experiences for a carer is that of a young carer. Young carers can lack decisions on if to provide care or how to cope. Young carers face carer stigma and bullying from other young people who may find it funny that the person is caring for someone with disabilities or other illnesses.
The strain on young carers can be so difficult that often family relationships break down, although relationship breakdown is a common theme among many other types of carers.
Young carers especially need help in supporting their relatives and usually this can depend on how good social services are. One strain could be that pressure is put on the caree to have their child put in some form of care, but this can cause added strain to the child who now lacks family support, but could have freedom to enjoy their childhood. The balance of growing up as a young carer is a very fine line.
What MAKES a person a carer
You do not want to see your loved one hurt physically, emotional
A carer is not a sudden role, usually a carer is formed as a slow process. Since I have been a carer for most of my life, I have come to the conclusion that being a carer is something you become and the role will change.
As a carer you do not wish anyone else to take over your role due to fear that role will not be carried out, but this does depend on the type of care needed. I am now going into controversial mode. In the UK some of the health systems have failed loved ones, the systems designed to protect communities, families and those who fall ill have ended up as part of the problem due to power culture and lack of information share.
The elderly, frail, sick or mentally ill have been put at risk time and time again due to lack of resources, lack of finances, mistrust and neglect and lack of…..care.
I am not going out on a limb to blame the NHS as a whole. Since in the UK this is one of the biggest and best placed institutions, which Britain has to be proud for, we have skilled health professionals working overtime to provide care in difficult circumstances and even then we have carers who fail their loved one due to abuse and also neglect.
However we are always asked this question, the question asked of a carer is who do you trust?
The NHS or care system in any country has to be responsible somewhere, too many stories of failure to provide care and families and communities will mistrust the health system, they will then provide their own care. The primary role of a carer is to not see any more harm come to those that they love.
Carers share time and energy in their role to care
Although carers are put under pressure, but carers noticed that they can share their time to provide some care otherwise a carer would more likely step back and walk away.
There is a threshold where a carer will decide to stop if their caring duties become too much, but carers can see time and energy placed in their role. The resources of time, care and energy must be planned in order to stop a carer from being over burdened, this is not an easy thing to get right and it depends again on what the caree is suffering from as present.
Caring sometimes can be overwhelming, which is why carers need support themselves
No one is a born carer and carers often worry about their own health, be it physical or mental support. Carers who care do not get paid unless its a form of benefit, however caring is almost like a job to most carers, but carers aren’t bankers or engineers, they do not serve the public in that way.
Carers try to keep their families together, families try to keep community together, without the community then what do we have left? That is a frightening thought.
Carers have to emotionally second guess what their loved ones needs are, carers may also have to advocate on behalf of their loved one, sometimes the law may try to support carers, but at the same time block carers access to information (for a good reason), but this can cause conflict in the caring role.
Carers have to do physical chores, shopping, cooking, hygiene care, financial support and keeping the family together as well as sacrifice their own future.
The problem is caring is not something that can be physically traded, care is provided behind doors, caring is just something that is not often seen, so perhaps society does not value carers as they value material things. Maybe this is a human condition, but this human condition has a flaw, because not all in society will be carers, but one day we will all need care ourselves. Think about that for a second.
Carers can be trapped by outside forces who may not recognise them
Carers can be easily trapped, as I have mentioned before no one is forced to care, since caring can be a decision process. Some people can walk away from care, while for other carers the role has become too much and rightly so.
Maybe carers just feel they are not getting that support, but each day a carer will question themselves on how much resources do they have left?
Carer Stigma
Some people do not wish to be labelled as carers because they feel they are caring out the role as if they are a family member or doing this out of honour for the community. Others prefer that they are labelled supporter or helper, but no matter what they are called, they are providing care and assistance. Some carers are fortunate to have bigger families who can help take turns in the role, while other carers are litarily a one man army digging deep in vast energy resources.
Society is only as strong as the people who live within it and test it. Society is just not the be all and end all, society is changing all the time. The problem is society also must remain a state where community wishes to live within it. We all wish for society to be civil, but the problem is so many things are tied to economics and that includes the health system. Its a numbers game, less resources here and someone has to pay the price and the cost is painful.
Society has rules and unfortunately rules can trap carers. Carers can end up paying the price where they are only trying to help their family or the community.
Carers need to speak up, but not all can speak
Carers need to speak up, if carers wish to be valued for what they do, they need to let others know what battle they face almost every day. Some carers cannot easily do this, while others face the stigma of caring.
I have come across some people who feel carers are just lazy people who should get a real job, and some do have a point, there are other carers who abuse their position, but for most of the time a lot of carers are under huge amounts of pressure. Throughout my caring role I have encountered many organisations in the UK speaking up for carers that being CarersUK or Carers Trust and many more.
We also have engagement and participation groups and healthwatch springs to mind, because they play a greater role on access to quality health care.
Some support
If you are a carer yourself or know someone who is starting out as a carer, you are not alone, there is some help to support you on your journey
Going on line to find resources
Its a tough one, but I have always found going online to look for examples of providing good care. Some will say the internet has too much nonsense to make any good idea of what care should be, but use your judgement, compare different sources. Get numbers and ring around, join forums. CarersUK has a forum which offers support, advice and experience.
As for other countries, there usually is some form of carers forums online. If you do not have access to the internet, usually a library or a carers center has some online facilities for carers to use. Use these facilities to also plan your future, since it is important to work on your skillset, since you might not be a carer forever.
Visiting carer centers
You can always physically get support and that is by booking some time at a carers center. I use carers Lewisham myself and sometimes I pop over to other boroughs in London. At carers center you can get emotional support as counselling, financial advice, advocacy and meet other carers. The rule is do not try to cope by yourself.
Speaking to other carers
As I have mentioned before, speaking to other carers is vital. I can say safely say I have written this blog in one sitting, but I have only 10% of knowledge of what is required of carers. Speaking to other carers has several benefits but the biggest is to show that you are not the only one out there, you are not on your own. Carers can also offer advice on starting out on care, they can also offer some emotional support and advocate if need be. The other side of the coin is you can offer advice to carers who are at their wits end.
Information is your currency to your caring role
People often value currency as in money, carers lack financial capital, but money cannot buy love or care. So the thing is what can buy good love or care?
The answer is Information.
Carers should look online, speak to others and do not be afraid to ask. Get information and turn it into knowledge, then apply the knowledge. We are not perfect and the human condition is frail as is also society is not perfect and can also be put under pressure.
As a carer you will make mistakes, you will judge and be judged. You will get angry, you will be pushed aside and lied to and be undervalued, but deep down you can look yourself in the mirror. Money comes and goes, but memories of those who care will last generations to come.
Welcome back to another health awareness video. I have been gone quite a long while, but that doesn’t mean I have not been very busy. I usually am involved with many carer forums and groups in and around south/south east London. I try to raise awareness of unpaid carers who look after someone suffering from mental illness.
It has been a while since my last blog post. Usually I review psychiatry or psychology lectures, but I thought to go back into writing more about carers. This time I think I shall blog about why people want to be there for others, especially those that are close to them.
A Caring Mind 